I have 77,000 miles on this truck and since I bought her I've had some problems, but nothing major (yet). I was a moron and lightly washed the engine, which flooded a plug on the right bank (nice job Ford Engineering!!). Then, after taking a look at the plug that came out of it (rusty and coroded), I changed the plugs. I also replaced the sway bar links. But now I'm getting concerned,

I'm developing a "tick" on the right bank near the 7/8 cylinders. But the noise is NOT during an idle, or under 1500 RPM's. The minute I back off the throttle it disappears, but I climb back into it and it ticks again. I popped the hood, and goosed the throttle a couple times to see if I could see any exhaust smoke (thinking it's a crack in the exhaust manifold) but I couldn't see anything, but they are very rusty. Any ideas on how to determine if it's the exhaust or not??

Also...the plugs were replaced with Autolite's

 

Check your pcv valve or better yet replace it. I have read about the pcv valve making a noise and having to be replaced.

 

That ticking could be a spark leak due to a plug wire arcing.

I'd replace the suspect wires making certain to use dielectric grease when reinstalling. The grease will help keep moisture out of the electrical connection.

Steve

 

also make sure the plugs are tight. on a cold engine only!

the plug you took out could be moving up and down when under load